Exam Questions: John to Wallace

1. Describe the events that led to the defeat and capture of King John Balliol. 5 marks

3. Describe what happened at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298. 5 marks

2. Describe what happened at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. 5 marks

Source A describes the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Late in the morning, the standard bearers of the king and the earl crossed the bridge. When the enemy saw that they could win, they soon came down from the hill and they seized the end of the bridge so that no-one could use it. Many were thrown from the bridge and drowned. Cressingham died among the Scots. Source B also describes the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Source B The Scots allowed as many of the English to cross the bridge as they could hope to defeat, and then, having blocked the bridge, they slaughtered all who had crossed over. Among those who perished was Cressingham. De Warenne escaped with difficulty and with a small following. 4. How far do Sources A & B agree about what happened at the Battle of Stirling Bridge? 4 marks

Source C explains why the leadership of William Wallace was important: Wallace has become a folk hero in Scotland. Although he was only the second son of an unimportant knight, for a short while he became Guardian of Scotland and prepared for an English invasion. He also looked for foreign help. Bishop Lamberton was sent to Rome and Paris to plead Scotland’s cause there. Wallace also renewed trade with Germany to obtain iron for weapons which he needed for his army. 5. Why was the leadership of William Wallace important during the Wars of Independence? (Use Source C and recall) 5 marks

6. How useful is Source D as evidence about Wallace’s death? Source D is from Blind Harry’s poem “The Wallace”. It was written about 1470. Source D Then quickly came the executioner, who Gave him the fatal and the mortal blow. Thus, in defence, that hero ends his days, Of Scotland’s right, to his immortal praise. 6. How useful is Source D as evidence about Wallace’s death? 4 marks